BSF to get local ATVs for patrolling in Kutch border

The Border Security Force (BSF) will soon get cost-effective All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) for patrolling in marshy international border along with Pakistan in Kutch district of Gujarat, a top official said today.

“This area (Sir-creek area) is a very unique terrain which has a rare combination of water and land. Water in the region ranges from 2 to 15 feet in depth. And it becomes muddy,” said Santosh Mehra, Inspector General, Gujarat Frontier, BSF said.

Mehra said considering the conditions, they had asked the automotive companies to make something (ATVs) local which can be easily acclimatised here.

“Trials are in progress and within three to four months we will get new ATVs. The new ATVs will cost around Rs 17 to 18 lakh, while the previous imported ones cost was nearly Rs 3 crore,” he said.

He was talking to reporters at a plantation drive organised by BSF officials and jawans at Chiloda campus here.

When asked whether the new ATVs will be solely based on the indigenous technology, Mehra said certain parts will be made in the country, while other parts would be imported from Canada.

The new ATVs are being manufactured by India’s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), the officer added.

Replying to a query if the BSF will protect the border at Kutch region with hovercrafts, he said, “We are not very happy with the performance of hovercrafts in this region.” BSF has been guarding 750-km-long border with Pakistan through its 28 border posts in Gujarat. A 3.5 km-long symbolic marathon and a cycle rally was also organised at the event which was concluded with a pledge to save the environment.